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SJR 72

SJR 72 - This constitutional amendment, if approved by the voters, modifies the equal protection provision of the Missouri Constitution to define "person" as every human being with a unique DNA code regardless of age, including an unborn child. Nothing in the Constitution shall be construed to secure or protect a right to abortion or the funding of an abortion. This constitutional amendment is identical to SJR 8 (2025) and HJR 89 (2024). SARAH HASKINS

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mike Moon

Missouri proposes constitutional amendment defining "personhood" for equal protection purposes, affecting abortion, rights interpretation, and legal protections.

Voted Do Pass S Emerging Issues and Professional Registration Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SJR 72

Legislative bill overview

SJR 72 proposes a constitutional amendment to define "person" in Missouri's equal protection clause. The bill seeks to clarify legal personhood status, likely in response to ongoing debates about when constitutional protections apply. This would require voter approval as a constitutional amendment.

Why is this important

Defining "person" in constitutional law has far-reaching consequences for which groups receive equal protection guarantees. This amendment could affect legal interpretations involving abortion, artificial intelligence, corporate rights, or other emerging issues where personhood status is contested. The outcome directly determines whose rights are constitutionally protected.

Potential points of contention

  • Abortion implications: Depending on how "person" is defined, this could restrict or clarify abortion access by establishing when legal personhood begins
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill text details are limited; unclear whether definition applies narrowly to one issue or broadly across all equal protection claims
  • Competing interests: Pro-life advocates may support personhood definitions starting at conception, while reproductive rights supporters oppose such definitions; other groups worry about unintended consequences for AI, corporations, or immigrant rights

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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